Burkart leaves Adams football

December 09, 2005|MATT KOPSEA Tribune Staff Writer

SOUTH BEND -- Brian Burkart can finally get some sleep now. Following four rocky seasons at the helm of the Adams High football program, Burkart decided it was time to step aside by submitting his resignation to school officials. During his stay with the Eagles, Burkart compiled a 3-37 mark, including back-to-back 0-10 campaigns. "This was something that I had been thinking about for awhile now," said Burkart, who actually made up his mind prior to the end of the regular season. "This year was especially hard, not only for the players, but myself as well. "I went through a lot of sleepless nights and finally came to the conclusion that it wasn't healthy for both parties," Burkart added. "I've never been one to walk away from a challenge, but I just felt like I've done all I could to try and turn things around here." A graduate of Jackson High School, Burkart recalled when hired at Adams back in 2002 that it was always a dream of his to be a head football coach in South Bend one day. This dream quickly turned into a nightmare as the Eagles struggled and are now in the midst of a 21-game losing streak. "After four years of time, effort, blood, sweat, and tears, I just felt it was time for a change at the top," said Burkart, who has an overall record of 43-116 in 12 seasons of coaching. "To the tremendous players, coaches, and alumni of Adams, I apologize that we have not rewarded you with more actual wins over the past four years. "However, I don't apologize for the effort exhibited by the coaching staff and the young men who represented Adams on the football field," Burkart added. "They (players) never quit on themselves or the school, so for that effort, they will always be champions in my eyes." Prior to coming to Adams, Burkart was the top man at Marian (1990-93), Michigan City Elston (1994), Michigan City (1995-97), and Knox (1998-2001) As the Eagles' program looks to move forward with a new identity, there are some bright spots to build on. In addition to having members from this year's freshman squad that went 7-2, the Eagles also return Northern Indiana Conference first-team running back Shawn Major-Winston, who rushed for over 1,300 yards, and several members from the offensive line. "I believe great things are around the corner for Adams football," said Burkart. "I'm just sorry I won't be here to see everything come together. I know they will play like champions like they always did." Although his stay at Adams is complete, Burkart is not ready to put away the whistle just yet. "I hope that I will continue to coach football in South Bend at another place and time," said Burkart, who will remain on as special education teacher at Adams. "If the situation is right, it doesn't matter to me if I'm a head coach again or just an assistant. I believe I still have something to offer if anyone is willing to listen." According to Adams athletic director Teri Woodruff, the opening for the position will be posted today with a deadline of Jan. 20 to apply. Woodruff said she hopes to have the job filled by the end of February.